Beware of W-2 Phishing Scam this Tax Season
Beware of W-2 Phishing Scam this Tax Season

The IRS is warning employers about a W-2 phishing scam this tax season. Last year, the scam defrauded thousands of taxpayers and many organizations. The IRS believes the scam could actually be worse this year.

How Does the Scam Work?

In this phishing scam, scammers email a company’s payroll officer claiming to be one of the company’s executives. They then request copies of the employees’ W-2 forms. If the payroll officer complies, the scammer now has access to all the employees’ personal information.

A W-2 form has an employee’s name, address and Social Security number, as well as their financial information. The scammer can then file taxes as the employee and steal their tax return.

Protect Your Tax Information

The IRS cautions employers to exercise caution when handling their employees’ tax documents. For taxpayers, filing their tax returns as soon as possible can help reduce their exposure to the scam. The IRS can then immediately recognize a scammer’s later attempt to file your tax return.

“Remember to always be very cautious when handling your personal information. If something seems suspicious, it’s better to be safe than sorry,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

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